Salim "Sam" Haddad

Mr. Salim “Sam” Haddad, age 84, passed away peacefully on the date of his mother’s birth, Monday, June 10, 2013. His passing occurred at the Upstate Medical University in Syracuse with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on July 7, 1928, Salim was the son of the late Shacker “Chick” and Mary (Trad) Haddad. Raised and educated locally, Sam was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1947. On May 10, 1959 he wed the former Jean E. Caporuscio with whom he shared 54 years in a traditional marriage of their era; they were loyal, protective of each other, devoted, and very much in love. A proud veteran of the New York Army National Guard, he honorably served his country at the Parkway East Armory. After Sam graduated from high school he began a business venture working tirelessly with his brother Solomon as vegetable farmers. Gradually, year by year, acre by acre, they built their successful dairy farm, “Haddad Brothers.” Throughout the years, Sam’s children assisted him on the dairy farm. After retirement in 1985, Sam and Solomon developed their dairy farm into a subdivision, “Shacker Heights,” including Haddad Drive, in honor of their father. Sam characterized his career as “a wonderful life” blessed with the scenic views that he cherished. Sam’s legacy lives on in his loved ones who knew him as a protective patriarch, a hard worker, and an industrious man. He was loyal to his family and held true to his moral values. Sam fought for all his beliefs and he was true to himself. He was disciplined, self-motivated, generous, loving, and in succeeding years he embraced his sentimental side and his steadfast devotion and affection for his family. Many would remember the strength and sincerity of his embracing handshake. He was also blessed with a great sense of humor and had a way of laughing at the small quirks in life and inspiring others to laugh with him. Another ray of sunshine in Sam’s life was his garden that was grown with love and pride. He cultivated seasonal vegetables, orchards, and enjoyed the harvests of his pumpkin patch for his grandchildren. He embraced a newfound love for cooking with organic ingredients and prepared deliciously unique pancakes for his family. Tapping into his creative mindset, he also dabbled in art, photography, and sculpturing. He applied his carpentry skills in building and remodeling houses, not only his own, but also the homes of his children. During more recent years, he embarked on stateside and world-wide travels and cruises with his wife, but he always felt most at home on his deck overseeing the Mohawk Valley. He also had a penchant for dancing, earning the nickname “Polka King”; his nimble and light movements were entertaining to watch. A dedicated and charitable man to his community, Sam was modest about his generosity and his ability to “silently” assist others. He was affiliated with numerous civic and volunteer organizations for many years. He was an active, charter member who helped establish the Frankfort Hill Volunteer Fire Company serving as President, Treasurer, and Deputy Chief during his 60 years of service. It was faith that guided Sam’s life, a faith that he practiced at his home parish, St. George’s Antiochian Orthodox Church where he was a lifelong faithful supporter and one of its eldest members. He was diligent in his duties to the church community and served as President and Treasurer of the Parish Council. One of his favorite tasks was preparing the Lenten Season fish fry. He participated in renovations and improvements to the South Street parish. Sam is survived by his loving wife, Jean; his daughters and sons-in-law, Cynthia and Joseph Napolitan, Jr. of Grand Rapids, MI, Jenise Haddad of Frankfort, NY, Alesia and Thomas Carroll, Jr. of Massena, NY, Mary Haddad of Chicago, IL, Laurin Haddad of Syracuse, NY, and Stephanie and Matthew Payne of Frankfort, NY; his grandchildren to whom he was lovingly known as Giddo: Samara, Joseph III, and Lenox Napolitan; Anthony, and Tayla Giacovelli; Nathan, and Jase Smith; Nikki, Baylee, and Sydnee Carroll; Izabella Mims-Haddad; and Salim, Coleson, and Jackson Payne. Also cherishing his memory are his siblings, sister, Freida Khammar of Camillus; and brother, Solomon and Diane Haddad of Frankfort; in-laws John and Rose Anne Caporuscio of Syracuse, and James Caporuscio of Huntington, NY; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Edward Khammar; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Anthony and Laura Caporuscio. The family is thankful for the attentiveness and care provided to Sam by the first responders, volunteers from Frankfort Hill Volunteer Fire Co., numerous medical personnel, nurses, staff, and aides, especially those at the Intensive Care Unit at Upstate Medical University in Syracuse; Community General Hospital; and The Pines at Utica, all of whom shared their expertise and care with gentle touches. A special thank you is extended to Rev. James Guirguis, for his prayers and spiritual support, and Fr. David Smith for his friendship and prayers. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12:00-2:00 and 4:00-7:00 at St. George’s Antiochian Orthodox Church, 350 Higby Rd., New Hartford. The family will remain until all visitors have been seen. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the St. George’s Antiochian Orthodox Church or the Frankfort Hill Fire Company in lieu of floral offerings; envelopes will be available in the vestibule of the church. Sam’s funeral service will commence on Friday morning at 11:00 at St. George’s Antiochian Orthodox Church with Rev. James Guirguis officiating. Interment with Military Honors accorded by the Honor Guard will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc. 932 South St. corner of Hammond Ave.

Salim "Sam" Haddad

July 7, 1928 - June 10, 2013